§ Mr. Hall-Davisasked the Minister of Transport if he will give a general direction to those road-passenger undertakings in State ownership that, in deciding the public transport services to be provided on Christmas Day, they should have regard to the needs of those in rural areas wishing to visit relatives and friends in hospital.
§ Mr. MulleyNo. It would not be appropriate for me to give such a general direction. The provision of services is a matter for the individual managements to decide themselves in the light of their knowledge of all the local circumstances, but I am sure they will bear in mind the hon. Member's point.